JERUSALEM (NEWSnet/AP) — The latest round of Gaza cease-fire discussion ended in Cairo after “in-depth and serious discussions,” Hamas militant group said Sunday.

Israel rejected key demands, the group said.

After signs of progress, the outlook appeared to dim as Israel closed its main crossing point for delivering aid to Gaza.

The defense minister claims Hamas isn't serious about a deal, and warned of “a powerful operation in the very near future in Rafah and other places across all of Gaza."

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continued to lower expectation for a cease-fire agreement, calling Hamas demands “extreme,” including the withdrawal of Israel forces from Gaza and an end to the war. 

Israel did not send a delegation to the talks mediated by Egypt and Qatar. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said, "We see signs that Hamas does not intend to go to any agreement."

Egypt state media reported that the Hamas delegation left Cairo for discussion in Qatar, and will return to Egypt's capital Tuesday for further negotiation.

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